2005 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 562 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (344 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | ML |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
